Kid Cosmo: Bringing a Beloved Graphic Novel Character to Life
Introduction to Kid Cosmo
In the visually captivating world of The Electric State, a Netflix original film set to release on March 14, Kid Cosmo emerges as an endearing and enigmatic robot. With a bright yellow, globe-like head reminiscent of an exercise ball and a slender frame, Cosmo captivates audiences with his uniqueness. Though his design is mechanically improbable, his charm lies in his intricate details and the emotional depth he brings to the story. This article delves into the creative process behind Cosmo, from his origins in Simon Stalenhag’s graphic novel to the meticulous efforts of the filmmakers in making him a relatable character.
Inspired by Simon Stalenhag’s Vision
Simon Stalenhag’s graphic novel The Electric State, a cult favorite since its 2018 release, sets the stage for Cosmo’s journey. The story unfolds in an alternate 1990s, where remnants of a mysterious war litter the Californian landscape with discarded drones and robots. Inspired by Stalenhag’s character Skip, known for his imposing head, Cosmo was designed to be both aesthetically captivating and emotionally engaging. Visual Effects Supervisor Matthew E. Butler highlights that while Stalenhag’s designs are visually striking, they often defy engineering logic, presenting a creative challenge for the filmmakers.
The Russo Brothers’ Commitment to Realism
Directors Anthony and Joe Russo aimed to ground The Electric State in a recognizable reality, blending 1990s nostalgia with sci-fi elements. They sought to create a world that, despite its fantastical robots, feels authentic. This approach extended to Cosmo’s design, transforming a mechanically implausible character into one that appears functional. By incorporating elements like mechanical sinews and twisting coils, the design team achieved a balance between artistic vision and mechanical feasibility, ensuring Cosmo’s presence on screen was both believable and captivating.
Designing Cosmo’s Expressive Presence
Cosmo’s static face, inspired by 1950s tin toys, presented a unique challenge in conveying emotion. The filmmakers opted for camera lenses resembling eyes, set deep within painted eye holes, allowing Cosmo to express intentions without needing facial movement. Production Designer Dennis Gassner emphasized the importance of retaining the static look of antique toys while suggesting an inner life. This design choice, combined with sound effects like servo whirs, enriched Cosmo’s character, making him more relatable and lifelike.
Motion Capture and Bringing Cosmo to Life
Devyn Dalton’s motion capture performance was integral to animating Cosmo. While initial considerations for physical props were discarded, Dalton’s ability to embody the character through movement and expression was crucial. The team focused on subtle details, ensuring Cosmo’s actions felt natural and grounded, despite his fantastical design. This blend of animation and performance brought depth and nuance to Cosmo, making him a memorable and empathetic character.
From Screen to Reality: The Promotional Cosmo
In a meta twist, UCLA’s Robotics & Mechanisms Laboratory created a life-size Cosmo for promotional events, mirroring the film’s narrative of a promotional robot. This physical embodiment of Cosmo, unveiled at New York Comic Con, highlighted the collaboration and innovation that brought the character to life. The promotional robot, alongside Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, showcased the film’s themes and the meticulous craftsmanship invested in its creation.
The journey of Kid Cosmo from graphic novel to screen exemplifies the fusion of art and technology, illustrating how a mechanically improbable character can resonate deeply with audiences. By focusing on emotional connection and attention to detail, The Electric State brings a timeless story to life, proving that even the most fantastical beings can feel real and relatable.